Massage Therapy Certification

Massage Certification at State Level

Since certification standards vary from state to state, people interested in becoming a qualified or licensed massage therapist should inquire about the requirements of the state in which they plan to practice. Passing the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork’s exam may be part of the qualifications, as well as others set by individual states' licensing boards.

State Massage Therapist Regulation and Licensing

37 states regulate the practice of massage therapy. Each state has a regulatory board which set standard educational requirements and provides oversight of the state laws and regulations.

Local Massage Therapist Regulation and Licensing

Some cities and counties have their own set of laws regulating the practice of massage therapy. If you are a massage therapist practicing in an area where local laws and regualtions exist, you must abide by those licensing requirements as well as the state's massage licensing and regulation.

NCBTMB - National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
To be eligible to take the NCBTMB test, therapists must complete 500 hours of formal training at an accredited school of massage or bodywork, or have an equivalent combination of academic courses and work experience.